State-adopted agricultural education programs, government agencies, and non-profit organizations that administer agricultural education programs will have their chance to vie for over $225,000, thanks to the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s 2014 California Special Interest License Plate grant program.

The CalAgPlate program, which allows supporters to purchase specialized, agriculture-themed license plates through the California Department of Motor Vehicles, provides grant money for the aforementioned organizations on a competitive basis.

“Agricultural education represents a critical investment in the next generation of farmers, ranchers and agricultural leaders,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “This program gives Californians the opportunity to contribute to the legacy of California agriculture and invest in its future by enriching the lives of our youngest citizens.”

As a program that provides the first opportunity for grant funding, the CalAgPlate program has sold more than 17,000 special interest license plates. Organizations have until Nov. 21 to apply for funds from this year's grant program, which go towards promoting agricultural education and leadership opportunities for students at the K-12, post-secondary, and adult education levels.

Those interested in supporting agricultural education and the CalAgPlate program are encouraged to purchase a special interest license plate at a local DMV office or online at dmv.ca.gov.

For more information and grant application materials visit cdfa.ca.gov/calagplate.